List Mgmt. 2022 Draft Thread - Part I

[George]

Sticking this at the top of each page. If it gets annoying, let me know and I can just put it in the original post of the thread. Credit to Lore

 

[gringo2011]

Yeah, Bowes has been good for them, up until this year? Fiorini has been inconsistent, but his best is good.

He's always been a good accumulator but must be a bit low impact. Fiorini that is. Been pushed aside as others came on.

 

[bird_man]

Who remembers Doug Bailey from the mid 90's?

His young bloke is dominating in the back end for Dandenong and is said to be a bit of a late bolter

Unfortunately Doug only managed the 11 games with us

 

[Dr Spaceman]

Who remembers Doug Bailey from the mid 90's?

His young bloke is dominating in the back end for Dandenong and is said to be a bit of a late bolter

Unfortunately Doug only managed the 11 games with us

One of those 11 games was the infamous SCG match in 1994 where Plugger went crazy and got us across the line with 4 goals in the last for a total of 11

 

[George]

One of those 11 games was the infamous SCG match in 1994 where Plugger went crazy and got us across the line with 4 goals in the last for a total of 11

11 goals between them that day, Bailey was some player

 

[Dr Spaceman]

11 goals between them that day, Bailey was some player

11 goals between Plugger, Bailey and myself in fact

 

[botts]

https://t.co/UkyUCcboih

Can someone do the paywall thing please

 

[CaptainRisky]

11 goals between Plugger, Bailey and myself in fact

You on the same gear as the Duck ,

 

[pebblesofsand]

https://t.co/UkyUCcboih

Can someone do the paywall thing please

AFL Draft 2022: Top 30 power rankings, expert consensus on the best prospects​

Draft boards are starting to take shape at AFL clubs and our experts have put their heads together to rank the top 30 prospects — and they didn’t agree on much.

Jordan Pinto and Dan Batten

22 min read
September 7, 2022 - 8:00AM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom
https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/...ad76656a283b0a0f36fbde2efb366?amp#share-tools

1. Will Ashcroft​

Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro/Brisbane father-son
Midfielder, 183cm, 79kg
The standout prospect of this year’s draft pool, Ashcroft is the complete midfielder, who will join Brisbane, the club his father Marcus played 318 games for, in November. The elite, well-rounded ball-winner has dominated at every level he’s played at this season and will be ready to go next year.
Jordan Pinto’s ranking – 1: And by some way, too. Has just been better than everyone else on the ground on most occasions this year at all levels – even the VFL. Looking forward to seeing what he can do next year already.
Dan Batten’s ranking – 1: The complete package as a midfielder: clean at ground level, a prolific ball-winner, great ball-user, relentless work-rate and good burst of speed. His staggering 29 disposals per game at VFL level epitomises his dominance this season – the top talent in the country by a fair margin.

2. Harry Sheezel​

Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
Forward, 183cm, 74kg
Sheezel, described by recruiters as a “freak”, is, arguably, the draft pool’s biggest match-winner. The Sandy Dragons star can turn a game in a blink of an eye inside-50 ¬ in the way the player he looks up to, Toby Greene, does – and can have a serious impact through the midfield with his unrivalled skill and explosiveness.
JP – 3: Had him at No.2 for a while, and he may end up back there, but can the proven goalkicker become a match-winning mid at the top level? That’s the only question, because his kicking is sublime and he’s so assured with ball in hand, even when he’s dancing in and out of traffic.
DB – 2: Sheezel’s match-winning traits up forward and through the middle draw similarities to Port Adelaide’s Connor Rozee. A nightmare match-up for defenders with his agility and uncanny knack to kick goals from all angles. Just ahead of Wardlaw and Tsatas for mine, but that could change.
FULL PROFILES: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ON 86 PROSPECTS

3. Elijah Tsatas​

Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro
Midfielder, 188cm, 80kg
An injury-interrupted season hasn’t tempered the excitement around Tsatas, the line-breaking midfielder with serious speed. The 188cm teenager can win it on the inside and outside, but the way he takes the ball cleanly and explodes out of congestion is what has really caught the eye. Tsatas, who comes from an athletics background, impressed in his return from injury late in the NAB League season.
JP – 2: His breakaway speed from the contest is unrivalled in this draft, but the way he takes the ball cleanly at pace, before bursting out, is almost more impressive. If Tsatas isn’t finding a teammate by foot at full-tilt, he’s often setting one free with a swinging handball in traffic, highlighting the development of his all-round game.
DB – 4: Tsatas has proved his inside traits this year and his offensive game is arguably the best of any midfielder in this draft class. A strong championships finale later this month could see him surge higher in my rankings.

4. George Wardlaw​

Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro
Midfielder, 182cm, 82kg
Before hamstring injuries ruined his draft year, Wardlaw took the honours in a head-to-head NAB League battle with Ashcroft and was then named best afield for the Australian under-18s side against Collingwood VFL’s team in May. Despite the interrupted season, recruiters have seen enough of the competitive beast who has great speed and power, and models his game on Clayton Oliver.
JP – 4: There isn’t much separating the three after Ashcroft – you could argue all be the next player picked on draft night. Wardlaw’s attack on the ball and body is uncompromising – he stopped Ashcroft in his tracks in the opening five minutes of the NAB League season – but he’s still so clean and in control with the ball in those tight spaces.
DB – 3: Wardlaw isn’t just a bull-at-a-gate contested ball-winner and fierce tackler, he has exceptional power to burst through stoppages and fly high for marks. There is no knowing how high his standing would be if hamstring setbacks didn’t sideline him through the back-half of the year.
George Wardlaw was best-on-ground for the AFL Academy against Collingwood. Picture: Kelly Defina/AFL Photos/Getty Images

5. Aaron Cadman​

GWV Rebels/Vic Country
Key forward, 194cm, 88kg
The best tall forward in this year’s draft, Cadman is a skilful left-footer with a vice-like grip overhead and incredibly clean hands for a big man below his knees. Like the player he resembles at the top level, Jeremy Cameron, Cadman covers the ground well and he highlighted his talent further at national level, booting seven goals in three games for Vic Country.
JP – 6: Cleary the best tall forward in the draft, and, given his vast skill set, I’ve thought about placing him significantly higher, as a club could do come November. He’s just going to be a difficult match-up – if he’s not outmarking his opponent in the air, he can win it on the ground and get a teammate involved.
DB – 5: The top key forward available. Cadman has risen up the ranks with his consistent performance at national and NAB League level, setting tongues wagging with his overhead marking, coverage around the ground and ability to hit the scoreboard.

6. Jedd Busslinger​

East Perth/WA
Key defender, 196cm, 82kg
Just like Denver Grainger-Barras two years ago, the best young intercept defender in the draft is from Western Australia, with Busslinger proving impenetrable at WAFL Colts level. He was just as good for WA at the national carnival, before season-ending shoulder surgery. Busslinger reads the play well, backs himself in the air and doesn’t look like a typical 196cm big man when he’s kicking, such is his control by foot.
JP – 5: Gets in great spots, and then uses his size and reach to win it back off the opposition. But he’s also a very compact and composed ball-user for a 196cm key-position player and that’s why I’ve got him just ahead of Cadman.
DB – 8: The intercept king of the draft class, who has performed strongly despite playing through injury at stages this season. Slightly further back on my rankings, but that’s more of a reflection of other prospects than the West Australian.

7. Jhye Clark​

Geelong Falcons/Vic Country
Midfielder, 180cm, 77kg
The Geelong Falcons skipper is an aggressive, well-balanced midfielder, who distributes it neatly by both hand and foot on either side of his body. Clark is strong at the contest and uses his elite running ability to find the ball in space, often forward of centre to hit the scoreboard. He may not have the height of others, but there’s not a lot Clark, who has been likened to a young Joel Selwood, can’t do.
JP – 10: The more I think about the more I think maybe 10 is too low for a player who just gets it done in most facets of the game. I’ve just got others with a touch more upside ahead.
DB – 6: Clark has grown as a player as the year has gone on. He always seems to lift when the game is on the line and his inside-outside ball-winning, leadership, competitiveness edge and two way running make him a real safe bet.

8. Mattaes Phillipou​

Woodville-West Torrens/SA
Midfielder, 192cm, 82kg
The son of former Eagles SANFL star and three-game Western Bulldogs forward Sam Phillipou, Mattaes looks set to be the first SA player taken in this year’s draft. His hands are great at the contest, but they’re even better in the air, with the 18-year-old switching between tough, clean on-baller to high-marking, goalkicking forward with damaging effect. And recruiters are excited about his scope for further improvement.
JP – 9: Phillipou is one of those players with more upside I mentioned above. He’s dominated SANFL under-18 footy for two years, in two areas of the ground, but he still appears to have plenty of room for growth. 192cm goalkicking midfielders, with clean skills and terrific ball-winning ability, don’t grown on trees.
DB – 7: A running goal from beyond the arc – while playing hurt – at nationals said it all about what Phillipou can produce. A midfielder with his size, clean hands in traffic and ability to hit the scoreboard suits the modern game perfectly – and I think he has the potential to surpass those above him on this list at the next level.

9. Cam Mackenzie​

Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro/Saints Next Generation Academy
Midfielder, 187cm, 80kg
The St Kilda Next Generation Academy member has bolted into the top-10 mix after a standout 2022 campaign. He was a consistent ball-winner for Sandringham and Vic Metro through the midfield this season, with his decision making and ball use – by hand and foot – a highlight. Mackenzie is clean, composed and has a nice burst of acceleration.
JP – 7: Mackenzie is just smart. Smart in where he positions himself to win the ball, and smart in what he does with it, even under pressure. He’s got some nice speed away from the contest, but the way he slows the game down and often makes the right decision, even when forced to adjust, is what is most impressive.
DB – 11: Has the poise and composure in traffic that few in this draft class possess and is a nice size as a balanced midfielder. Would have loved to squeeze him into my top 10, but I had others marginally ahead.


10. Bailey Humphrey
Gippsland Power/Vic Country
Midfielder/forward, 184cm, 86kg
Humphrey, a powerful midfielder-forward who takes a terrific mark overhead, is the late bolter of this year’s draft. He missed the national carnival after a knee injury in May, but he made a stunning 31-disposal, four-goal NAB League return shortly after, and is coming with a bullet. He is a real competitor who attacks the ball ferociously, has seriously quick breakaway speed from stoppages and is a neat kick on both feet.
JP – 8: While he’s been a force inside-50 this year, on potential and projection, Humphrey could be as good as any midfielder in the draft, given his mix of power, speed and skill. Then there’s that sidestep.
DB – 12: It’s tough to put him ahead of others who have stacked it up at national level, but Humphrey’s performances in the NAB League have been immense – both before and after his injury. Watch him bolt up the board even further if he has a big outing in his sole Vic Country outing in grand final week.

Bailey Humphrey is the late bolter of the draft. Picture: Kelly Defina/AFL Photos/via Getty Images

11. Elijah Hewett​

Swan Districts/WA
Midfielder, 185cm, 84kg
Hewett is strong on the inside, but also damaging out in space, and has more than held his own in nine senior games for Swan Districts this year, following an impressive bottom-age season at Colts level. And all of the WA skipper’s top-end traits were on show during an impressive national carnival opener against Vic Metro – speed, explosiveness, ball-winning ability and a serious side step.
JP – 15: Changes direction as good as any in the pool, and has speed to match his creativity in tight. At his best offensively, Hewett is top-10 talent, but I’ve seen his defensive running and intent fall away a little too often.
DB – 9: Has showcased his skills as a forward in the WAFL and his stunning 29 disposals, two goals and five score assists against the might of Vic Metro underlined his credentials as a midfielder. Has the tools to play right away and his burst will excite.

12. Henry Hustwaite​

Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country
Midfielder/defender 194cm, 84kg
A silky left-footer, Hustwaite has come from nowhere over the past two years after a major growth spurt left him the ability to play a variety of roles. He started the year in defence with the Stingrays in the NAB League as a third tall, but has gone on to learn how to play as an inside midfielder. Hustwaite is an efficient ball user – particularly with his hands – who has good vision and footy nous and is extremely composed with the footy.
JP – 11: When you watch Hustwaite get the ball in traffic and find a teammate by hand, you can’t help but think of the way Scott Pendlebury slows down time in the midfield. That’s why I’ve thought about him even higher than 11, but he’s still got some way to go in learning to use his impressive size.
DB – 13: 194cm midfielder’s that can buy time like Scott Pendlebury in congestion don’t grow on trees. Always seems to find an option by hand in tight spots and his capacity to be used in defence, where he started the year, is an extra bonus.

13. Matthew Jefferson​

Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro
Key forward, 195cm, 78kg
A tall forward, whose marking, both on the lead and in a contested situation, is his weapon. A member of the NAB AFL Academy, Jefferson kicked six goals in four NAB League matches to start the year before a breakout national championships with Vic Metro. While still lightly-framed, AFL clubs are excited about his prospects when he fills out his body. Jefferson, who has a strong basketball background, looks up to Essendon forward Harrison Jones, who he has drawn comparisons to.
JP – 14: Couldn’t help but be impressed by what he did against WA at the national carnival and, with his hands and the way he presents as a target, it’s easy to get excited about what he could become, even if not right away.
DB – 10: Jefferson leads the national carnival goalkicking (with a game in hand) and has been held goalless in just one of his nine representative games this season – when he hauled in four contested marks and kicked an inaccurate 0.6. His hands are as good as any tall in this draft and while he has recently fractured his fibula, don’t expect it to deter clubs.

14. Reuben Ginbey​

East Perth/WA

Midfielder/defender, 189cm, 85kg

After holding down a spot in East Perth’s senior side as a medium defender, Ginbey made a flawless transition to the midfield at national level, where he was crowned Western Australia’s MVP. As an inside midfielder, his elite speed-endurance mix and ball-winning came to the fore and, at 189cm, Ginbey is the modern day prototype, while his athletic traits and versatility give him an added point-of-difference.

JP – 12: Wins the ball – and even looks like – Giant Tom Green, and probably has a similar kicking concern. But, while his midfield craft may have not reached the heights of Green just yet, the versatile Ginbey has a better athletic profile.

DB – 14: He burst onto the radar with a round 1 debut in the WAFL in defence and captivated when thrown into the midfield at the national champs, where he was crowned as WA’s MVP. Has considerable upside with his speed-endurance mix, height and versatility.

15. Oliver Hollands​

Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country

Midfielder, 183cm, 73kg

The brother of Gold Coast’s Elijah Hollands, who burst onto the scene with Gold Coast this year, Oliver is a slightly different prospect to his older sibling. A damaging running player, Hollands uses his elite aerobic capacity – close to the best in the draft pool – to win the ball all over the ground. But, as he reminded recruiters during the national carnival, he is very clean and precise by hand in congestion.

JP – 13: Recruiters like prospects who are elite at something, and Hollands, with his running and clean hands, fits the bill.

DB – 16: Will fit in seamlessly in any position on the ground and brings a touch of class with ball in hand. A different type of player to Elijah, but could prove to be just as valuable at the next level.

16. Alwyn Davey Jnr​

Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro/Essendon father-son

Midfielder/forward, 181cm, 74kg

As the son of former Bombers small forward Alwyn Davey Snr, the 18-year-old is an exciting father-son prospect for the club. But it’s his uncle – former Melbourne midfielder Aaron Davey – that he likens his own game to. The classy, balanced teenager oozes class and can do things not many others can do, with his speed and the way he takes the game on wowing onlookers this year.

JP – 19: The Bombers are going to get a good one in Alwyn Jnr, who has more tricks than most.

DB – 15: Has speed to burn, is extremely agile and doesn’t need a lot of the ball to have a serious impact. Think Aaron, rather than Alwyn Sr – and expect to see more goals in the red and black like his first for Essendon’s VFL side.

17. Jaspa Fletcher​

Lions Academy/Allies/Brisbane father-son

Midfielder, 184cm, 73kg

The son of Brisbane Bears and Lions player Adrian Fletcher, Jaspa is another highly-touted Brisbane father-son prospect in this year’s draft. And, after an impressive national carnival for the Allies, where the dynamic and skilful midfielder spent more time on the inside, a first-round bid could come. The long-kicking right-footer showed promise for the AFL Academy on a wing against Collingwood’s VFL side and consistently hits the scoreboard.

JP – 16: The classy Fletcher’s ability to kick goals from the midfield sets him apart from a few others around this mark.

DB – 19: Fletcher showcased some promising inside traits at the national carnival to compliment his creativity and ball-use on the outside. The Lions have another quality father-son prospect here.

18. Isaac Keeler​

North Adelaide/SA/Crows NGA

Forward/ruck, 198cm, 88kg

The athletic big man is one of the most-talented players in the draft. And the fears over his intensity, competitiveness and consistency heading into the year have been slightly allayed, with Keeler putting together a standout 2022 campaign. At his best, the Crows NGA prospect is an unstoppable forward – in the air and at ground level – with a brilliant eye for goal, and a Paddy Ryder-like ability to play as a mobile ruckman.

JP – 17: Is he a better prospect as an athletic ruckman or a pure key-forward at the top level? He's impressed as both, but that’s still a difficult question to answer. Talent was never a concern, and he’s addressed other areas of his game this year.

DB – 22: Incredibly athletic, both as a ruckman and a key forward, and he was able to impress on the national stage. Probably the third best tall forward in the crop, but it’s a fair gap between him and Cadman/Jefferson.

19. Olli Hotton​

Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro

Forward, 181cm, 77kg

A lively small forward, Hotton has great footy smarts and has emerged from nowhere to sit as a top draft prospect after an impressive national championships. Against SA, Hotton, who is clean, a good mark above his head and seriously quick, finished with 24 disposals, 3.2 and one score assist in an eye-catching outing. He is the son of former Collingwood and Carlton forward Trent Hotton, who played 78 AFL games.

JP – 18: A one-touch prospect, who is just very smart – around goal and through the middle. Might continue to surprise at the next level.

DB – 21: Super impressive championships from Hotton – the highlight a 24 disposal, three goal display in the wet against South Australia – and has taken that form into the NAB League. Deceptively quick and a very clever.

20. Mitch Szybkowski​

Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country

Midfielder, 186cm, 84kg

A medium midfielder with a sharp competitive edge, Szybkowski attacks the ball aggressively and lays strong tackles on the opposition. A good ball-winner with clean hands and great vision, he creates for his team with smart ball-use. His work rate both ways is one of Szybkowski’s standout traits, and the AFL Academy member backed up his solid start in the NAB League with a strong national carnival for Vic Country, where he averaged 27 disposals.

JP – 22: Szybkowski is strong, consistent and competitive – three desirable traits in a midfielder. I just think a few others have more upside.

DB – 18: Has produced high-end performances all season long and is a balanced midfielder with a hard-edge. Excels in the contest and works hard defensively.

21. Lachie Cowan​

Tasmania Devils/Allies

Defender, 188cm, 81kg

The top Tasmanian prospect in the pool, Cowan has excelled at NAB League level and was among the Allies’ best at the national carnival across half-back, with his penetrating right-foot and line-breaking speed on full display. He’s a nice size for the modern game at 188cm and highlighted his intercepting qualities across the year, ranking third in the NAB League for intercept possessions. And only Will Ashcroft averaged more ranking points.

JP – 24: With his dash and long-kicking, Cowan is hard to miss. Add to that his size and ball-winning ability, and there is a lot to like.

DB – 17: Tasmanians are often underrated in draft circles, but what Cowan offers with his explosive speed, intercepting and penetrating kicking makes him a worthy top 20 pick in my view. Was a standout in the Devils’ elimination final win – with a play where he burnt off three would-be tacklers from a kick-in summing up his game-breaking play.

22. Lewis Hayes​

Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro

Defender, 197cm, 81kg

AFL clubs have long kept a close eye on the younger brother of Port Adelaide ruckman Sam Hayes, but they really took notice of his standout national championships for Vic Metro. A tall intercepting defender – one of only a few at the top-end of this year’s draft – Hayes tallied 19 disposals, eight rebound-50s and six intercepts against WA. The 197cm prospect has good endurance, is a strong mark above his head and reads the ball well.

JP – 25: Given the lack of high-quality key-defensive prospects, the rangy Hayes’ impressive national carnival has seen him shoot up the rankings – mine included.

DB – 20: Another who shot up at nationals, where his intercept marking was exceptional. He combines that part of his game with sublime footskills for a big man, and while he isn’t a traditional key back, I see him as the next best tall defender behind Busslinger.

23. Brayden George​

Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country

Forward, 185cm, 87kg

George will be sidelined for the next 12 months after suffering a ACL rupture in Murray’s wildcard round match. It’s a shame, given the powerful forward with exceptional spring and speed, was already one of the great unknowns of the draft class after battling an early-season knee injury. But there’s still no doubting his exciting potential as a match-winning forward, who is a threat in the air and at ground level. His skill around goal has drawn comparisons to former Cats star Steve Johnson.

JP – 23: Given the unknown even before the ACL tear, George’s place in November’s draft is fascinating. He’s top-20 on talent, but which club is in a position to take the risk?

DB – 23: A recent ACL rupture and his lack of exposure places him a bit further back on this list, but there’s no doubting his potential as powerful forward capable of breaking games open in the air or at ground level.

24. Harry Barnett​

West Adelaide/SA

Ruck, 202cm, 92kg

The strong-marking 202cm talent gives his midfielders first use in the ruck and has a strong presence as a forward, but it’s Barnett’s follow-up work at stoppages and hands at ground level that have really caught the eye. His development as a ball-winning offensive weapon was on full show in the SANFL under-18s before Barnett confirmed his place as one of, if not the, standout ruck prospect in the draft at national level.

JP – 20: Does a club taken Barnett with its first selection? Given his mixed skill set and the fact there’s not a lot of other big men around at the top end of the talent pool, it could be a good move.

DB – 25: Like what he was able to do at the national championships with his work around the ground, intercepting in the air and following up at stoppages. Looms as the top ruck available.


Claremont/WA

Defender/midfielder 188cm, 71kg

Despite an injury-interrupted season, which ended with a broken leg in early August, the athletic Gilbey has put his name firmly on the draft radar. The 188cm Claremont product wins the ball back off the opposition and is creative and composed with it coming out of defence. Gilbey is slightly built, but has time with the ball in-hand and gets out of trouble through the midfield with ease.

JP – 21: Gilbey was robbed of any consistency this year by injury and Covid, but there’s no denying his class and composure – of which he has more than a lot of others in the draft.

DB – 27: Glandular fever and Covid marred his season and a broken tibia ended it, but what he was able to produce in an interrupted season was impressive. Brings classy ball-use, intercepting and ability to win 1-on-1s defensively: a nice combination as a defender.

26. Josh Weddle​

Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro

Defender, 191cm, 87kg

Weddle, a mid-sized defender, is another to have risen up AFL club draft boards on the back of a strong national championship – and a significant growth spurt over the past 18 months. The right-footer is athletically gifted, explosive with his speed and can play on talls or smalls. But, despite, his ability as an interceptor, AFL clubs see potential for Weddle to play a variety of roles, not just in defence.

JP – 28: At 191cm, Weddle needs to be versatile as a defender – and he is. There’s plenty to work with.

DB – 28: Doesn’t have the offensive attributes of Hayes but his defensive skill set is stronger, with the ultra-competitive defender able to play on a range of opponents.

27. Jakob Ryan​

Glenelg/SA

Defender/forward, 189cm, 77kg

He can play forward, as he proved as bottom-ager, but the rapidly-developing teenager has been a standout in defence at all levels this season. Ryan was the No. 1 ranked in SANFL under-18s for intercept marks and rates elite for disposals, kicking efficiency, total intercepts and score involvements as a defender. The athletic playmaker, who attacks with flare and is decisive with ball in hand, was one of SA’s strongest performers at that national carnival.

JP – 26: The Croweater’s marking ability can be used with great effect at either end of the ground, but it’s the way he used his attacking mindset in the back-half that has really stood out this year.

DB – 30+: Just outside my top 30 with other small defenders ahead, but he showed promise at the national carnival for South Australia and has no trouble finding the footy.

28. Darcy Jones​

Swan Districts/WA

Midfielder/forward 175cm, 67kg

While size may be a barrier for some, Jones’ blistering speed, clean hands and silky skills can stack up against bigger bodies, with the 175cm prospect proving that against West Coast’s WAFL side late in the year after earning a senior debut. At the national carnival, Jones’ creative ball-use and footy smarts saw him finish as one of WA’s most consistent performers, kicking a goal and winning more than 17 touches in every game.

JP – 30+: Continues to defy his size, and break games open with his speed and footy brain. As they say, if you’re good enough, you’re big enough, and that could be true with Jones, but I’ve still got him a little further back than this.

DB – 26: It can take some extra convincing for recruiters recognise a smaller prospect, and Jones was no exception, but his height doesn’t hold him back in any way. His blistering speed, creative ball-use and clean hands at ground level can be used at either end of the ground at the next level, and he has already turned heads against men in the WAFL.

29. Max Michalanney​

Norwood/SA/Crows father-son

Defender, 192cm, 78kg

The versatile, mid-sized defender, with a nice turn of speed, reads the play well and is very composed. As a bottom-ager in 2021, the 192cm prospect was the sixth-ranked player for intercept possessions at SANFL under-18 level and, this year, made his league debut for Norwood in June after impressing at reserves level. The Crows father-son prospect boasts excellent leadership skills and can play taller than his height suggests.

JP – 29: Michalanney does all the things you want a mid-sized defender to do – and he does them with a touch of class. And his leadership and character is just as impressive.

DB – 30+: Had a question mark on his competitiveness which he has dispelled somewhat with some eye-catching reserves form and a SANFL call-up. Another knocking on the door of my 30.

30. Harvey Gallagher​

Bendigo Pioneers

Defender/forward, 179cm, 77kg

Gallagher has shown promise as a small forward – both in his draft year of 2021 and at the beginning of 2022 for the Pioneers – but he has been swung into defence with great effect this year, averaging 33.2 disposals, 6.8 score involvements and a whopping 158.5 ranking points across six matches. On the back of his superb ball-use, composure, endurance and line-breaking speed, the over-ager is right back on the AFL radar, scoring an invite to October’s state combine.

JP – 30+: Can’t deny what Gallagher has done in the back half of this season – but has he done enough to convince the clubs that passed on him last year?

DB – 30: As Bendigo Pioneers coach Danny O’Bree posited to the Herald Sun: “If he was one of the top prospects this year as an 18-year-old and having this data, would he be getting more articles written about him?” We’ll let you be the judge of that, but over-ager Gallagher, who is just four months younger than Ashcroft, deserves to be recognised in this range after putting up Nick Daicos-esque NAB League numbers since switching into defence.

 

[bird_man]

AFL Draft 2022: Top 30 power rankings, expert consensus on the best prospects​

Draft boards are starting to take shape at AFL clubs and our experts have put their heads together to rank the top 30 prospects — and they didn’t agree on much.

Jordan Pinto and Dan Batten

22 min read
September 7, 2022 - 8:00AM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom
https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/...ad76656a283b0a0f36fbde2efb366?amp#share-tools

1. Will Ashcroft​

Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro/Brisbane father-son
Midfielder, 183cm, 79kg
The standout prospect of this year’s draft pool, Ashcroft is the complete midfielder, who will join Brisbane, the club his father Marcus played 318 games for, in November. The elite, well-rounded ball-winner has dominated at every level he’s played at this season and will be ready to go next year.
Jordan Pinto’s ranking – 1: And by some way, too. Has just been better than everyone else on the ground on most occasions this year at all levels – even the VFL. Looking forward to seeing what he can do next year already.
Dan Batten’s ranking – 1: The complete package as a midfielder: clean at ground level, a prolific ball-winner, great ball-user, relentless work-rate and good burst of speed. His staggering 29 disposals per game at VFL level epitomises his dominance this season – the top talent in the country by a fair margin.

2. Harry Sheezel​

Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
Forward, 183cm, 74kg
Sheezel, described by recruiters as a “freak”, is, arguably, the draft pool’s biggest match-winner. The Sandy Dragons star can turn a game in a blink of an eye inside-50 ¬ in the way the player he looks up to, Toby Greene, does – and can have a serious impact through the midfield with his unrivalled skill and explosiveness.
JP – 3: Had him at No.2 for a while, and he may end up back there, but can the proven goalkicker become a match-winning mid at the top level? That’s the only question, because his kicking is sublime and he’s so assured with ball in hand, even when he’s dancing in and out of traffic.
DB – 2: Sheezel’s match-winning traits up forward and through the middle draw similarities to Port Adelaide’s Connor Rozee. A nightmare match-up for defenders with his agility and uncanny knack to kick goals from all angles. Just ahead of Wardlaw and Tsatas for mine, but that could change.
FULL PROFILES: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ON 86 PROSPECTS

3. Elijah Tsatas​

Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro
Midfielder, 188cm, 80kg
An injury-interrupted season hasn’t tempered the excitement around Tsatas, the line-breaking midfielder with serious speed. The 188cm teenager can win it on the inside and outside, but the way he takes the ball cleanly and explodes out of congestion is what has really caught the eye. Tsatas, who comes from an athletics background, impressed in his return from injury late in the NAB League season.
JP – 2: His breakaway speed from the contest is unrivalled in this draft, but the way he takes the ball cleanly at pace, before bursting out, is almost more impressive. If Tsatas isn’t finding a teammate by foot at full-tilt, he’s often setting one free with a swinging handball in traffic, highlighting the development of his all-round game.
DB – 4: Tsatas has proved his inside traits this year and his offensive game is arguably the best of any midfielder in this draft class. A strong championships finale later this month could see him surge higher in my rankings.

4. George Wardlaw​

Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro
Midfielder, 182cm, 82kg
Before hamstring injuries ruined his draft year, Wardlaw took the honours in a head-to-head NAB League battle with Ashcroft and was then named best afield for the Australian under-18s side against Collingwood VFL’s team in May. Despite the interrupted season, recruiters have seen enough of the competitive beast who has great speed and power, and models his game on Clayton Oliver.
JP – 4: There isn’t much separating the three after Ashcroft – you could argue all be the next player picked on draft night. Wardlaw’s attack on the ball and body is uncompromising – he stopped Ashcroft in his tracks in the opening five minutes of the NAB League season – but he’s still so clean and in control with the ball in those tight spaces.
DB – 3: Wardlaw isn’t just a bull-at-a-gate contested ball-winner and fierce tackler, he has exceptional power to burst through stoppages and fly high for marks. There is no knowing how high his standing would be if hamstring setbacks didn’t sideline him through the back-half of the year.
George Wardlaw was best-on-ground for the AFL Academy against Collingwood. Picture: Kelly Defina/AFL Photos/Getty Images

5. Aaron Cadman​

GWV Rebels/Vic Country
Key forward, 194cm, 88kg
The best tall forward in this year’s draft, Cadman is a skilful left-footer with a vice-like grip overhead and incredibly clean hands for a big man below his knees. Like the player he resembles at the top level, Jeremy Cameron, Cadman covers the ground well and he highlighted his talent further at national level, booting seven goals in three games for Vic Country.
JP – 6: Cleary the best tall forward in the draft, and, given his vast skill set, I’ve thought about placing him significantly higher, as a club could do come November. He’s just going to be a difficult match-up – if he’s not outmarking his opponent in the air, he can win it on the ground and get a teammate involved.
DB – 5: The top key forward available. Cadman has risen up the ranks with his consistent performance at national and NAB League level, setting tongues wagging with his overhead marking, coverage around the ground and ability to hit the scoreboard.

6. Jedd Busslinger​

East Perth/WA
Key defender, 196cm, 82kg
Just like Denver Grainger-Barras two years ago, the best young intercept defender in the draft is from Western Australia, with Busslinger proving impenetrable at WAFL Colts level. He was just as good for WA at the national carnival, before season-ending shoulder surgery. Busslinger reads the play well, backs himself in the air and doesn’t look like a typical 196cm big man when he’s kicking, such is his control by foot.
JP – 5: Gets in great spots, and then uses his size and reach to win it back off the opposition. But he’s also a very compact and composed ball-user for a 196cm key-position player and that’s why I’ve got him just ahead of Cadman.
DB – 8: The intercept king of the draft class, who has performed strongly despite playing through injury at stages this season. Slightly further back on my rankings, but that’s more of a reflection of other prospects than the West Australian.

7. Jhye Clark​

Geelong Falcons/Vic Country
Midfielder, 180cm, 77kg
The Geelong Falcons skipper is an aggressive, well-balanced midfielder, who distributes it neatly by both hand and foot on either side of his body. Clark is strong at the contest and uses his elite running ability to find the ball in space, often forward of centre to hit the scoreboard. He may not have the height of others, but there’s not a lot Clark, who has been likened to a young Joel Selwood, can’t do.
JP – 10: The more I think about the more I think maybe 10 is too low for a player who just gets it done in most facets of the game. I’ve just got others with a touch more upside ahead.
DB – 6: Clark has grown as a player as the year has gone on. He always seems to lift when the game is on the line and his inside-outside ball-winning, leadership, competitiveness edge and two way running make him a real safe bet.

8. Mattaes Phillipou​

Woodville-West Torrens/SA
Midfielder, 192cm, 82kg
The son of former Eagles SANFL star and three-game Western Bulldogs forward Sam Phillipou, Mattaes looks set to be the first SA player taken in this year’s draft. His hands are great at the contest, but they’re even better in the air, with the 18-year-old switching between tough, clean on-baller to high-marking, goalkicking forward with damaging effect. And recruiters are excited about his scope for further improvement.
JP – 9: Phillipou is one of those players with more upside I mentioned above. He’s dominated SANFL under-18 footy for two years, in two areas of the ground, but he still appears to have plenty of room for growth. 192cm goalkicking midfielders, with clean skills and terrific ball-winning ability, don’t grown on trees.
DB – 7: A running goal from beyond the arc – while playing hurt – at nationals said it all about what Phillipou can produce. A midfielder with his size, clean hands in traffic and ability to hit the scoreboard suits the modern game perfectly – and I think he has the potential to surpass those above him on this list at the next level.

9. Cam Mackenzie​

Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro/Saints Next Generation Academy
Midfielder, 187cm, 80kg
The St Kilda Next Generation Academy member has bolted into the top-10 mix after a standout 2022 campaign. He was a consistent ball-winner for Sandringham and Vic Metro through the midfield this season, with his decision making and ball use – by hand and foot – a highlight. Mackenzie is clean, composed and has a nice burst of acceleration.
JP – 7: Mackenzie is just smart. Smart in where he positions himself to win the ball, and smart in what he does with it, even under pressure. He’s got some nice speed away from the contest, but the way he slows the game down and often makes the right decision, even when forced to adjust, is what is most impressive.
DB – 11: Has the poise and composure in traffic that few in this draft class possess and is a nice size as a balanced midfielder. Would have loved to squeeze him into my top 10, but I had others marginally ahead.


10. Bailey Humphrey
Gippsland Power/Vic Country
Midfielder/forward, 184cm, 86kg
Humphrey, a powerful midfielder-forward who takes a terrific mark overhead, is the late bolter of this year’s draft. He missed the national carnival after a knee injury in May, but he made a stunning 31-disposal, four-goal NAB League return shortly after, and is coming with a bullet. He is a real competitor who attacks the ball ferociously, has seriously quick breakaway speed from stoppages and is a neat kick on both feet.
JP – 8: While he’s been a force inside-50 this year, on potential and projection, Humphrey could be as good as any midfielder in the draft, given his mix of power, speed and skill. Then there’s that sidestep.
DB – 12: It’s tough to put him ahead of others who have stacked it up at national level, but Humphrey’s performances in the NAB League have been immense – both before and after his injury. Watch him bolt up the board even further if he has a big outing in his sole Vic Country outing in grand final week.

Bailey Humphrey is the late bolter of the draft. Picture: Kelly Defina/AFL Photos/via Getty Images

11. Elijah Hewett​

Swan Districts/WA
Midfielder, 185cm, 84kg
Hewett is strong on the inside, but also damaging out in space, and has more than held his own in nine senior games for Swan Districts this year, following an impressive bottom-age season at Colts level. And all of the WA skipper’s top-end traits were on show during an impressive national carnival opener against Vic Metro – speed, explosiveness, ball-winning ability and a serious side step.
JP – 15: Changes direction as good as any in the pool, and has speed to match his creativity in tight. At his best offensively, Hewett is top-10 talent, but I’ve seen his defensive running and intent fall away a little too often.
DB – 9: Has showcased his skills as a forward in the WAFL and his stunning 29 disposals, two goals and five score assists against the might of Vic Metro underlined his credentials as a midfielder. Has the tools to play right away and his burst will excite.

12. Henry Hustwaite​

Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country
Midfielder/defender 194cm, 84kg
A silky left-footer, Hustwaite has come from nowhere over the past two years after a major growth spurt left him the ability to play a variety of roles. He started the year in defence with the Stingrays in the NAB League as a third tall, but has gone on to learn how to play as an inside midfielder. Hustwaite is an efficient ball user – particularly with his hands – who has good vision and footy nous and is extremely composed with the footy.
JP – 11: When you watch Hustwaite get the ball in traffic and find a teammate by hand, you can’t help but think of the way Scott Pendlebury slows down time in the midfield. That’s why I’ve thought about him even higher than 11, but he’s still got some way to go in learning to use his impressive size.
DB – 13: 194cm midfielder’s that can buy time like Scott Pendlebury in congestion don’t grow on trees. Always seems to find an option by hand in tight spots and his capacity to be used in defence, where he started the year, is an extra bonus.

13. Matthew Jefferson​

Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro
Key forward, 195cm, 78kg
A tall forward, whose marking, both on the lead and in a contested situation, is his weapon. A member of the NAB AFL Academy, Jefferson kicked six goals in four NAB League matches to start the year before a breakout national championships with Vic Metro. While still lightly-framed, AFL clubs are excited about his prospects when he fills out his body. Jefferson, who has a strong basketball background, looks up to Essendon forward Harrison Jones, who he has drawn comparisons to.
JP – 14: Couldn’t help but be impressed by what he did against WA at the national carnival and, with his hands and the way he presents as a target, it’s easy to get excited about what he could become, even if not right away.
DB – 10: Jefferson leads the national carnival goalkicking (with a game in hand) and has been held goalless in just one of his nine representative games this season – when he hauled in four contested marks and kicked an inaccurate 0.6. His hands are as good as any tall in this draft and while he has recently fractured his fibula, don’t expect it to deter clubs.

14. Reuben Ginbey​

East Perth/WA

Midfielder/defender, 189cm, 85kg

After holding down a spot in East Perth’s senior side as a medium defender, Ginbey made a flawless transition to the midfield at national level, where he was crowned Western Australia’s MVP. As an inside midfielder, his elite speed-endurance mix and ball-winning came to the fore and, at 189cm, Ginbey is the modern day prototype, while his athletic traits and versatility give him an added point-of-difference.

JP – 12: Wins the ball – and even looks like – Giant Tom Green, and probably has a similar kicking concern. But, while his midfield craft may have not reached the heights of Green just yet, the versatile Ginbey has a better athletic profile.

DB – 14: He burst onto the radar with a round 1 debut in the WAFL in defence and captivated when thrown into the midfield at the national champs, where he was crowned as WA’s MVP. Has considerable upside with his speed-endurance mix, height and versatility.

15. Oliver Hollands​

Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country

Midfielder, 183cm, 73kg

The brother of Gold Coast’s Elijah Hollands, who burst onto the scene with Gold Coast this year, Oliver is a slightly different prospect to his older sibling. A damaging running player, Hollands uses his elite aerobic capacity – close to the best in the draft pool – to win the ball all over the ground. But, as he reminded recruiters during the national carnival, he is very clean and precise by hand in congestion.

JP – 13: Recruiters like prospects who are elite at something, and Hollands, with his running and clean hands, fits the bill.

DB – 16: Will fit in seamlessly in any position on the ground and brings a touch of class with ball in hand. A different type of player to Elijah, but could prove to be just as valuable at the next level.

16. Alwyn Davey Jnr​

Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro/Essendon father-son

Midfielder/forward, 181cm, 74kg

As the son of former Bombers small forward Alwyn Davey Snr, the 18-year-old is an exciting father-son prospect for the club. But it’s his uncle – former Melbourne midfielder Aaron Davey – that he likens his own game to. The classy, balanced teenager oozes class and can do things not many others can do, with his speed and the way he takes the game on wowing onlookers this year.

JP – 19: The Bombers are going to get a good one in Alwyn Jnr, who has more tricks than most.

DB – 15: Has speed to burn, is extremely agile and doesn’t need a lot of the ball to have a serious impact. Think Aaron, rather than Alwyn Sr – and expect to see more goals in the red and black like his first for Essendon’s VFL side.

17. Jaspa Fletcher​

Lions Academy/Allies/Brisbane father-son

Midfielder, 184cm, 73kg

The son of Brisbane Bears and Lions player Adrian Fletcher, Jaspa is another highly-touted Brisbane father-son prospect in this year’s draft. And, after an impressive national carnival for the Allies, where the dynamic and skilful midfielder spent more time on the inside, a first-round bid could come. The long-kicking right-footer showed promise for the AFL Academy on a wing against Collingwood’s VFL side and consistently hits the scoreboard.

JP – 16: The classy Fletcher’s ability to kick goals from the midfield sets him apart from a few others around this mark.

DB – 19: Fletcher showcased some promising inside traits at the national carnival to compliment his creativity and ball-use on the outside. The Lions have another quality father-son prospect here.

18. Isaac Keeler​

North Adelaide/SA/Crows NGA

Forward/ruck, 198cm, 88kg

The athletic big man is one of the most-talented players in the draft. And the fears over his intensity, competitiveness and consistency heading into the year have been slightly allayed, with Keeler putting together a standout 2022 campaign. At his best, the Crows NGA prospect is an unstoppable forward – in the air and at ground level – with a brilliant eye for goal, and a Paddy Ryder-like ability to play as a mobile ruckman.

JP – 17: Is he a better prospect as an athletic ruckman or a pure key-forward at the top level? He's impressed as both, but that’s still a difficult question to answer. Talent was never a concern, and he’s addressed other areas of his game this year.

DB – 22: Incredibly athletic, both as a ruckman and a key forward, and he was able to impress on the national stage. Probably the third best tall forward in the crop, but it’s a fair gap between him and Cadman/Jefferson.

19. Olli Hotton​

Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro

Forward, 181cm, 77kg

A lively small forward, Hotton has great footy smarts and has emerged from nowhere to sit as a top draft prospect after an impressive national championships. Against SA, Hotton, who is clean, a good mark above his head and seriously quick, finished with 24 disposals, 3.2 and one score assist in an eye-catching outing. He is the son of former Collingwood and Carlton forward Trent Hotton, who played 78 AFL games.

JP – 18: A one-touch prospect, who is just very smart – around goal and through the middle. Might continue to surprise at the next level.

DB – 21: Super impressive championships from Hotton – the highlight a 24 disposal, three goal display in the wet against South Australia – and has taken that form into the NAB League. Deceptively quick and a very clever.

20. Mitch Szybkowski​

Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country

Midfielder, 186cm, 84kg

A medium midfielder with a sharp competitive edge, Szybkowski attacks the ball aggressively and lays strong tackles on the opposition. A good ball-winner with clean hands and great vision, he creates for his team with smart ball-use. His work rate both ways is one of Szybkowski’s standout traits, and the AFL Academy member backed up his solid start in the NAB League with a strong national carnival for Vic Country, where he averaged 27 disposals.

JP – 22: Szybkowski is strong, consistent and competitive – three desirable traits in a midfielder. I just think a few others have more upside.

DB – 18: Has produced high-end performances all season long and is a balanced midfielder with a hard-edge. Excels in the contest and works hard defensively.

21. Lachie Cowan​

Tasmania Devils/Allies

Defender, 188cm, 81kg

The top Tasmanian prospect in the pool, Cowan has excelled at NAB League level and was among the Allies’ best at the national carnival across half-back, with his penetrating right-foot and line-breaking speed on full display. He’s a nice size for the modern game at 188cm and highlighted his intercepting qualities across the year, ranking third in the NAB League for intercept possessions. And only Will Ashcroft averaged more ranking points.

JP – 24: With his dash and long-kicking, Cowan is hard to miss. Add to that his size and ball-winning ability, and there is a lot to like.

DB – 17: Tasmanians are often underrated in draft circles, but what Cowan offers with his explosive speed, intercepting and penetrating kicking makes him a worthy top 20 pick in my view. Was a standout in the Devils’ elimination final win – with a play where he burnt off three would-be tacklers from a kick-in summing up his game-breaking play.

22. Lewis Hayes​

Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro

Defender, 197cm, 81kg

AFL clubs have long kept a close eye on the younger brother of Port Adelaide ruckman Sam Hayes, but they really took notice of his standout national championships for Vic Metro. A tall intercepting defender – one of only a few at the top-end of this year’s draft – Hayes tallied 19 disposals, eight rebound-50s and six intercepts against WA. The 197cm prospect has good endurance, is a strong mark above his head and reads the ball well.

JP – 25: Given the lack of high-quality key-defensive prospects, the rangy Hayes’ impressive national carnival has seen him shoot up the rankings – mine included.

DB – 20: Another who shot up at nationals, where his intercept marking was exceptional. He combines that part of his game with sublime footskills for a big man, and while he isn’t a traditional key back, I see him as the next best tall defender behind Busslinger.

23. Brayden George​

Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country

Forward, 185cm, 87kg

George will be sidelined for the next 12 months after suffering a ACL rupture in Murray’s wildcard round match. It’s a shame, given the powerful forward with exceptional spring and speed, was already one of the great unknowns of the draft class after battling an early-season knee injury. But there’s still no doubting his exciting potential as a match-winning forward, who is a threat in the air and at ground level. His skill around goal has drawn comparisons to former Cats star Steve Johnson.

JP – 23: Given the unknown even before the ACL tear, George’s place in November’s draft is fascinating. He’s top-20 on talent, but which club is in a position to take the risk?

DB – 23: A recent ACL rupture and his lack of exposure places him a bit further back on this list, but there’s no doubting his potential as powerful forward capable of breaking games open in the air or at ground level.

24. Harry Barnett​

West Adelaide/SA

Ruck, 202cm, 92kg

The strong-marking 202cm talent gives his midfielders first use in the ruck and has a strong presence as a forward, but it’s Barnett’s follow-up work at stoppages and hands at ground level that have really caught the eye. His development as a ball-winning offensive weapon was on full show in the SANFL under-18s before Barnett confirmed his place as one of, if not the, standout ruck prospect in the draft at national level.

JP – 20: Does a club taken Barnett with its first selection? Given his mixed skill set and the fact there’s not a lot of other big men around at the top end of the talent pool, it could be a good move.

DB – 25: Like what he was able to do at the national championships with his work around the ground, intercepting in the air and following up at stoppages. Looms as the top ruck available.


Claremont/WA

Defender/midfielder 188cm, 71kg

Despite an injury-interrupted season, which ended with a broken leg in early August, the athletic Gilbey has put his name firmly on the draft radar. The 188cm Claremont product wins the ball back off the opposition and is creative and composed with it coming out of defence. Gilbey is slightly built, but has time with the ball in-hand and gets out of trouble through the midfield with ease.

JP – 21: Gilbey was robbed of any consistency this year by injury and Covid, but there’s no denying his class and composure – of which he has more than a lot of others in the draft.

DB – 27: Glandular fever and Covid marred his season and a broken tibia ended it, but what he was able to produce in an interrupted season was impressive. Brings classy ball-use, intercepting and ability to win 1-on-1s defensively: a nice combination as a defender.

26. Josh Weddle​

Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro

Defender, 191cm, 87kg

Weddle, a mid-sized defender, is another to have risen up AFL club draft boards on the back of a strong national championship – and a significant growth spurt over the past 18 months. The right-footer is athletically gifted, explosive with his speed and can play on talls or smalls. But, despite, his ability as an interceptor, AFL clubs see potential for Weddle to play a variety of roles, not just in defence.

JP – 28: At 191cm, Weddle needs to be versatile as a defender – and he is. There’s plenty to work with.

DB – 28: Doesn’t have the offensive attributes of Hayes but his defensive skill set is stronger, with the ultra-competitive defender able to play on a range of opponents.

27. Jakob Ryan​

Glenelg/SA

Defender/forward, 189cm, 77kg

He can play forward, as he proved as bottom-ager, but the rapidly-developing teenager has been a standout in defence at all levels this season. Ryan was the No. 1 ranked in SANFL under-18s for intercept marks and rates elite for disposals, kicking efficiency, total intercepts and score involvements as a defender. The athletic playmaker, who attacks with flare and is decisive with ball in hand, was one of SA’s strongest performers at that national carnival.

JP – 26: The Croweater’s marking ability can be used with great effect at either end of the ground, but it’s the way he used his attacking mindset in the back-half that has really stood out this year.

DB – 30+: Just outside my top 30 with other small defenders ahead, but he showed promise at the national carnival for South Australia and has no trouble finding the footy.

28. Darcy Jones​

Swan Districts/WA

Midfielder/forward 175cm, 67kg

While size may be a barrier for some, Jones’ blistering speed, clean hands and silky skills can stack up against bigger bodies, with the 175cm prospect proving that against West Coast’s WAFL side late in the year after earning a senior debut. At the national carnival, Jones’ creative ball-use and footy smarts saw him finish as one of WA’s most consistent performers, kicking a goal and winning more than 17 touches in every game.

JP – 30+: Continues to defy his size, and break games open with his speed and footy brain. As they say, if you’re good enough, you’re big enough, and that could be true with Jones, but I’ve still got him a little further back than this.

DB – 26: It can take some extra convincing for recruiters recognise a smaller prospect, and Jones was no exception, but his height doesn’t hold him back in any way. His blistering speed, creative ball-use and clean hands at ground level can be used at either end of the ground at the next level, and he has already turned heads against men in the WAFL.

29. Max Michalanney​

Norwood/SA/Crows father-son

Defender, 192cm, 78kg

The versatile, mid-sized defender, with a nice turn of speed, reads the play well and is very composed. As a bottom-ager in 2021, the 192cm prospect was the sixth-ranked player for intercept possessions at SANFL under-18 level and, this year, made his league debut for Norwood in June after impressing at reserves level. The Crows father-son prospect boasts excellent leadership skills and can play taller than his height suggests.

JP – 29: Michalanney does all the things you want a mid-sized defender to do – and he does them with a touch of class. And his leadership and character is just as impressive.

DB – 30+: Had a question mark on his competitiveness which he has dispelled somewhat with some eye-catching reserves form and a SANFL call-up. Another knocking on the door of my 30.

30. Harvey Gallagher​

Bendigo Pioneers

Defender/forward, 179cm, 77kg

Gallagher has shown promise as a small forward – both in his draft year of 2021 and at the beginning of 2022 for the Pioneers – but he has been swung into defence with great effect this year, averaging 33.2 disposals, 6.8 score involvements and a whopping 158.5 ranking points across six matches. On the back of his superb ball-use, composure, endurance and line-breaking speed, the over-ager is right back on the AFL radar, scoring an invite to October’s state combine.

JP – 30+: Can’t deny what Gallagher has done in the back half of this season – but has he done enough to convince the clubs that passed on him last year?

DB – 30: As Bendigo Pioneers coach Danny O’Bree posited to the Herald Sun: “If he was one of the top prospects this year as an 18-year-old and having this data, would he be getting more articles written about him?” We’ll let you be the judge of that, but over-ager Gallagher, who is just four months younger than Ashcroft, deserves to be recognised in this range after putting up Nick Daicos-esque NAB League numbers since switching into defence.

Seems it is very close between the picks of 5-10.

We are in a pretty good position to land a good player, I would not want to be any lower than where we are and I don't see it being worth trying to trade up.

Ideally we'd love a mid with that pick, but would not be upset if Cadman or Busslinger landed at our pick either.

 

[D2D3]

AFL Draft 2022: Top 30 power rankings, expert consensus on the best prospects​

Draft boards are starting to take shape at AFL clubs and our experts have put their heads together to rank the top 30 prospects — and they didn’t agree on much.

Jordan Pinto and Dan Batten

22 min read
September 7, 2022 - 8:00AM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom
https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/...ad76656a283b0a0f36fbde2efb366?amp#share-tools

1. Will Ashcroft​

Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro/Brisbane father-son
Midfielder, 183cm, 79kg
The standout prospect of this year’s draft pool, Ashcroft is the complete midfielder, who will join Brisbane, the club his father Marcus played 318 games for, in November. The elite, well-rounded ball-winner has dominated at every level he’s played at this season and will be ready to go next year.
Jordan Pinto’s ranking – 1: And by some way, too. Has just been better than everyone else on the ground on most occasions this year at all levels – even the VFL. Looking forward to seeing what he can do next year already.
Dan Batten’s ranking – 1: The complete package as a midfielder: clean at ground level, a prolific ball-winner, great ball-user, relentless work-rate and good burst of speed. His staggering 29 disposals per game at VFL level epitomises his dominance this season – the top talent in the country by a fair margin.

2. Harry Sheezel​

Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
Forward, 183cm, 74kg
Sheezel, described by recruiters as a “freak”, is, arguably, the draft pool’s biggest match-winner. The Sandy Dragons star can turn a game in a blink of an eye inside-50 ¬ in the way the player he looks up to, Toby Greene, does – and can have a serious impact through the midfield with his unrivalled skill and explosiveness.
JP – 3: Had him at No.2 for a while, and he may end up back there, but can the proven goalkicker become a match-winning mid at the top level? That’s the only question, because his kicking is sublime and he’s so assured with ball in hand, even when he’s dancing in and out of traffic.
DB – 2: Sheezel’s match-winning traits up forward and through the middle draw similarities to Port Adelaide’s Connor Rozee. A nightmare match-up for defenders with his agility and uncanny knack to kick goals from all angles. Just ahead of Wardlaw and Tsatas for mine, but that could change.
FULL PROFILES: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ON 86 PROSPECTS

3. Elijah Tsatas​

Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro
Midfielder, 188cm, 80kg
An injury-interrupted season hasn’t tempered the excitement around Tsatas, the line-breaking midfielder with serious speed. The 188cm teenager can win it on the inside and outside, but the way he takes the ball cleanly and explodes out of congestion is what has really caught the eye. Tsatas, who comes from an athletics background, impressed in his return from injury late in the NAB League season.
JP – 2: His breakaway speed from the contest is unrivalled in this draft, but the way he takes the ball cleanly at pace, before bursting out, is almost more impressive. If Tsatas isn’t finding a teammate by foot at full-tilt, he’s often setting one free with a swinging handball in traffic, highlighting the development of his all-round game.
DB – 4: Tsatas has proved his inside traits this year and his offensive game is arguably the best of any midfielder in this draft class. A strong championships finale later this month could see him surge higher in my rankings.

4. George Wardlaw​

Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro
Midfielder, 182cm, 82kg
Before hamstring injuries ruined his draft year, Wardlaw took the honours in a head-to-head NAB League battle with Ashcroft and was then named best afield for the Australian under-18s side against Collingwood VFL’s team in May. Despite the interrupted season, recruiters have seen enough of the competitive beast who has great speed and power, and models his game on Clayton Oliver.
JP – 4: There isn’t much separating the three after Ashcroft – you could argue all be the next player picked on draft night. Wardlaw’s attack on the ball and body is uncompromising – he stopped Ashcroft in his tracks in the opening five minutes of the NAB League season – but he’s still so clean and in control with the ball in those tight spaces.
DB – 3: Wardlaw isn’t just a bull-at-a-gate contested ball-winner and fierce tackler, he has exceptional power to burst through stoppages and fly high for marks. There is no knowing how high his standing would be if hamstring setbacks didn’t sideline him through the back-half of the year.
George Wardlaw was best-on-ground for the AFL Academy against Collingwood. Picture: Kelly Defina/AFL Photos/Getty Images

5. Aaron Cadman​

GWV Rebels/Vic Country
Key forward, 194cm, 88kg
The best tall forward in this year’s draft, Cadman is a skilful left-footer with a vice-like grip overhead and incredibly clean hands for a big man below his knees. Like the player he resembles at the top level, Jeremy Cameron, Cadman covers the ground well and he highlighted his talent further at national level, booting seven goals in three games for Vic Country.
JP – 6: Cleary the best tall forward in the draft, and, given his vast skill set, I’ve thought about placing him significantly higher, as a club could do come November. He’s just going to be a difficult match-up – if he’s not outmarking his opponent in the air, he can win it on the ground and get a teammate involved.
DB – 5: The top key forward available. Cadman has risen up the ranks with his consistent performance at national and NAB League level, setting tongues wagging with his overhead marking, coverage around the ground and ability to hit the scoreboard.

6. Jedd Busslinger​

East Perth/WA
Key defender, 196cm, 82kg
Just like Denver Grainger-Barras two years ago, the best young intercept defender in the draft is from Western Australia, with Busslinger proving impenetrable at WAFL Colts level. He was just as good for WA at the national carnival, before season-ending shoulder surgery. Busslinger reads the play well, backs himself in the air and doesn’t look like a typical 196cm big man when he’s kicking, such is his control by foot.
JP – 5: Gets in great spots, and then uses his size and reach to win it back off the opposition. But he’s also a very compact and composed ball-user for a 196cm key-position player and that’s why I’ve got him just ahead of Cadman.
DB – 8: The intercept king of the draft class, who has performed strongly despite playing through injury at stages this season. Slightly further back on my rankings, but that’s more of a reflection of other prospects than the West Australian.

7. Jhye Clark​

Geelong Falcons/Vic Country
Midfielder, 180cm, 77kg
The Geelong Falcons skipper is an aggressive, well-balanced midfielder, who distributes it neatly by both hand and foot on either side of his body. Clark is strong at the contest and uses his elite running ability to find the ball in space, often forward of centre to hit the scoreboard. He may not have the height of others, but there’s not a lot Clark, who has been likened to a young Joel Selwood, can’t do.
JP – 10: The more I think about the more I think maybe 10 is too low for a player who just gets it done in most facets of the game. I’ve just got others with a touch more upside ahead.
DB – 6: Clark has grown as a player as the year has gone on. He always seems to lift when the game is on the line and his inside-outside ball-winning, leadership, competitiveness edge and two way running make him a real safe bet.

8. Mattaes Phillipou​

Woodville-West Torrens/SA
Midfielder, 192cm, 82kg
The son of former Eagles SANFL star and three-game Western Bulldogs forward Sam Phillipou, Mattaes looks set to be the first SA player taken in this year’s draft. His hands are great at the contest, but they’re even better in the air, with the 18-year-old switching between tough, clean on-baller to high-marking, goalkicking forward with damaging effect. And recruiters are excited about his scope for further improvement.
JP – 9: Phillipou is one of those players with more upside I mentioned above. He’s dominated SANFL under-18 footy for two years, in two areas of the ground, but he still appears to have plenty of room for growth. 192cm goalkicking midfielders, with clean skills and terrific ball-winning ability, don’t grown on trees.
DB – 7: A running goal from beyond the arc – while playing hurt – at nationals said it all about what Phillipou can produce. A midfielder with his size, clean hands in traffic and ability to hit the scoreboard suits the modern game perfectly – and I think he has the potential to surpass those above him on this list at the next level.

9. Cam Mackenzie​

Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro/Saints Next Generation Academy
Midfielder, 187cm, 80kg
The St Kilda Next Generation Academy member has bolted into the top-10 mix after a standout 2022 campaign. He was a consistent ball-winner for Sandringham and Vic Metro through the midfield this season, with his decision making and ball use – by hand and foot – a highlight. Mackenzie is clean, composed and has a nice burst of acceleration.
JP – 7: Mackenzie is just smart. Smart in where he positions himself to win the ball, and smart in what he does with it, even under pressure. He’s got some nice speed away from the contest, but the way he slows the game down and often makes the right decision, even when forced to adjust, is what is most impressive.
DB – 11: Has the poise and composure in traffic that few in this draft class possess and is a nice size as a balanced midfielder. Would have loved to squeeze him into my top 10, but I had others marginally ahead.


10. Bailey Humphrey
Gippsland Power/Vic Country
Midfielder/forward, 184cm, 86kg
Humphrey, a powerful midfielder-forward who takes a terrific mark overhead, is the late bolter of this year’s draft. He missed the national carnival after a knee injury in May, but he made a stunning 31-disposal, four-goal NAB League return shortly after, and is coming with a bullet. He is a real competitor who attacks the ball ferociously, has seriously quick breakaway speed from stoppages and is a neat kick on both feet.
JP – 8: While he’s been a force inside-50 this year, on potential and projection, Humphrey could be as good as any midfielder in the draft, given his mix of power, speed and skill. Then there’s that sidestep.
DB – 12: It’s tough to put him ahead of others who have stacked it up at national level, but Humphrey’s performances in the NAB League have been immense – both before and after his injury. Watch him bolt up the board even further if he has a big outing in his sole Vic Country outing in grand final week.

Bailey Humphrey is the late bolter of the draft. Picture: Kelly Defina/AFL Photos/via Getty Images

11. Elijah Hewett​

Swan Districts/WA
Midfielder, 185cm, 84kg
Hewett is strong on the inside, but also damaging out in space, and has more than held his own in nine senior games for Swan Districts this year, following an impressive bottom-age season at Colts level. And all of the WA skipper’s top-end traits were on show during an impressive national carnival opener against Vic Metro – speed, explosiveness, ball-winning ability and a serious side step.
JP – 15: Changes direction as good as any in the pool, and has speed to match his creativity in tight. At his best offensively, Hewett is top-10 talent, but I’ve seen his defensive running and intent fall away a little too often.
DB – 9: Has showcased his skills as a forward in the WAFL and his stunning 29 disposals, two goals and five score assists against the might of Vic Metro underlined his credentials as a midfielder. Has the tools to play right away and his burst will excite.

12. Henry Hustwaite​

Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country
Midfielder/defender 194cm, 84kg
A silky left-footer, Hustwaite has come from nowhere over the past two years after a major growth spurt left him the ability to play a variety of roles. He started the year in defence with the Stingrays in the NAB League as a third tall, but has gone on to learn how to play as an inside midfielder. Hustwaite is an efficient ball user – particularly with his hands – who has good vision and footy nous and is extremely composed with the footy.
JP – 11: When you watch Hustwaite get the ball in traffic and find a teammate by hand, you can’t help but think of the way Scott Pendlebury slows down time in the midfield. That’s why I’ve thought about him even higher than 11, but he’s still got some way to go in learning to use his impressive size.
DB – 13: 194cm midfielder’s that can buy time like Scott Pendlebury in congestion don’t grow on trees. Always seems to find an option by hand in tight spots and his capacity to be used in defence, where he started the year, is an extra bonus.

13. Matthew Jefferson​

Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro
Key forward, 195cm, 78kg
A tall forward, whose marking, both on the lead and in a contested situation, is his weapon. A member of the NAB AFL Academy, Jefferson kicked six goals in four NAB League matches to start the year before a breakout national championships with Vic Metro. While still lightly-framed, AFL clubs are excited about his prospects when he fills out his body. Jefferson, who has a strong basketball background, looks up to Essendon forward Harrison Jones, who he has drawn comparisons to.
JP – 14: Couldn’t help but be impressed by what he did against WA at the national carnival and, with his hands and the way he presents as a target, it’s easy to get excited about what he could become, even if not right away.
DB – 10: Jefferson leads the national carnival goalkicking (with a game in hand) and has been held goalless in just one of his nine representative games this season – when he hauled in four contested marks and kicked an inaccurate 0.6. His hands are as good as any tall in this draft and while he has recently fractured his fibula, don’t expect it to deter clubs.

14. Reuben Ginbey​

East Perth/WA

Midfielder/defender, 189cm, 85kg

After holding down a spot in East Perth’s senior side as a medium defender, Ginbey made a flawless transition to the midfield at national level, where he was crowned Western Australia’s MVP. As an inside midfielder, his elite speed-endurance mix and ball-winning came to the fore and, at 189cm, Ginbey is the modern day prototype, while his athletic traits and versatility give him an added point-of-difference.

JP – 12: Wins the ball – and even looks like – Giant Tom Green, and probably has a similar kicking concern. But, while his midfield craft may have not reached the heights of Green just yet, the versatile Ginbey has a better athletic profile.

DB – 14: He burst onto the radar with a round 1 debut in the WAFL in defence and captivated when thrown into the midfield at the national champs, where he was crowned as WA’s MVP. Has considerable upside with his speed-endurance mix, height and versatility.

15. Oliver Hollands​

Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country

Midfielder, 183cm, 73kg

The brother of Gold Coast’s Elijah Hollands, who burst onto the scene with Gold Coast this year, Oliver is a slightly different prospect to his older sibling. A damaging running player, Hollands uses his elite aerobic capacity – close to the best in the draft pool – to win the ball all over the ground. But, as he reminded recruiters during the national carnival, he is very clean and precise by hand in congestion.

JP – 13: Recruiters like prospects who are elite at something, and Hollands, with his running and clean hands, fits the bill.

DB – 16: Will fit in seamlessly in any position on the ground and brings a touch of class with ball in hand. A different type of player to Elijah, but could prove to be just as valuable at the next level.

16. Alwyn Davey Jnr​

Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro/Essendon father-son

Midfielder/forward, 181cm, 74kg

As the son of former Bombers small forward Alwyn Davey Snr, the 18-year-old is an exciting father-son prospect for the club. But it’s his uncle – former Melbourne midfielder Aaron Davey – that he likens his own game to. The classy, balanced teenager oozes class and can do things not many others can do, with his speed and the way he takes the game on wowing onlookers this year.

JP – 19: The Bombers are going to get a good one in Alwyn Jnr, who has more tricks than most.

DB – 15: Has speed to burn, is extremely agile and doesn’t need a lot of the ball to have a serious impact. Think Aaron, rather than Alwyn Sr – and expect to see more goals in the red and black like his first for Essendon’s VFL side.

17. Jaspa Fletcher​

Lions Academy/Allies/Brisbane father-son

Midfielder, 184cm, 73kg

The son of Brisbane Bears and Lions player Adrian Fletcher, Jaspa is another highly-touted Brisbane father-son prospect in this year’s draft. And, after an impressive national carnival for the Allies, where the dynamic and skilful midfielder spent more time on the inside, a first-round bid could come. The long-kicking right-footer showed promise for the AFL Academy on a wing against Collingwood’s VFL side and consistently hits the scoreboard.

JP – 16: The classy Fletcher’s ability to kick goals from the midfield sets him apart from a few others around this mark.

DB – 19: Fletcher showcased some promising inside traits at the national carnival to compliment his creativity and ball-use on the outside. The Lions have another quality father-son prospect here.

18. Isaac Keeler​

North Adelaide/SA/Crows NGA

Forward/ruck, 198cm, 88kg

The athletic big man is one of the most-talented players in the draft. And the fears over his intensity, competitiveness and consistency heading into the year have been slightly allayed, with Keeler putting together a standout 2022 campaign. At his best, the Crows NGA prospect is an unstoppable forward – in the air and at ground level – with a brilliant eye for goal, and a Paddy Ryder-like ability to play as a mobile ruckman.

JP – 17: Is he a better prospect as an athletic ruckman or a pure key-forward at the top level? He's impressed as both, but that’s still a difficult question to answer. Talent was never a concern, and he’s addressed other areas of his game this year.

DB – 22: Incredibly athletic, both as a ruckman and a key forward, and he was able to impress on the national stage. Probably the third best tall forward in the crop, but it’s a fair gap between him and Cadman/Jefferson.

19. Olli Hotton​

Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro

Forward, 181cm, 77kg

A lively small forward, Hotton has great footy smarts and has emerged from nowhere to sit as a top draft prospect after an impressive national championships. Against SA, Hotton, who is clean, a good mark above his head and seriously quick, finished with 24 disposals, 3.2 and one score assist in an eye-catching outing. He is the son of former Collingwood and Carlton forward Trent Hotton, who played 78 AFL games.

JP – 18: A one-touch prospect, who is just very smart – around goal and through the middle. Might continue to surprise at the next level.

DB – 21: Super impressive championships from Hotton – the highlight a 24 disposal, three goal display in the wet against South Australia – and has taken that form into the NAB League. Deceptively quick and a very clever.

20. Mitch Szybkowski​

Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country

Midfielder, 186cm, 84kg

A medium midfielder with a sharp competitive edge, Szybkowski attacks the ball aggressively and lays strong tackles on the opposition. A good ball-winner with clean hands and great vision, he creates for his team with smart ball-use. His work rate both ways is one of Szybkowski’s standout traits, and the AFL Academy member backed up his solid start in the NAB League with a strong national carnival for Vic Country, where he averaged 27 disposals.

JP – 22: Szybkowski is strong, consistent and competitive – three desirable traits in a midfielder. I just think a few others have more upside.

DB – 18: Has produced high-end performances all season long and is a balanced midfielder with a hard-edge. Excels in the contest and works hard defensively.

21. Lachie Cowan​

Tasmania Devils/Allies

Defender, 188cm, 81kg

The top Tasmanian prospect in the pool, Cowan has excelled at NAB League level and was among the Allies’ best at the national carnival across half-back, with his penetrating right-foot and line-breaking speed on full display. He’s a nice size for the modern game at 188cm and highlighted his intercepting qualities across the year, ranking third in the NAB League for intercept possessions. And only Will Ashcroft averaged more ranking points.

JP – 24: With his dash and long-kicking, Cowan is hard to miss. Add to that his size and ball-winning ability, and there is a lot to like.

DB – 17: Tasmanians are often underrated in draft circles, but what Cowan offers with his explosive speed, intercepting and penetrating kicking makes him a worthy top 20 pick in my view. Was a standout in the Devils’ elimination final win – with a play where he burnt off three would-be tacklers from a kick-in summing up his game-breaking play.

22. Lewis Hayes​

Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro

Defender, 197cm, 81kg

AFL clubs have long kept a close eye on the younger brother of Port Adelaide ruckman Sam Hayes, but they really took notice of his standout national championships for Vic Metro. A tall intercepting defender – one of only a few at the top-end of this year’s draft – Hayes tallied 19 disposals, eight rebound-50s and six intercepts against WA. The 197cm prospect has good endurance, is a strong mark above his head and reads the ball well.

JP – 25: Given the lack of high-quality key-defensive prospects, the rangy Hayes’ impressive national carnival has seen him shoot up the rankings – mine included.

DB – 20: Another who shot up at nationals, where his intercept marking was exceptional. He combines that part of his game with sublime footskills for a big man, and while he isn’t a traditional key back, I see him as the next best tall defender behind Busslinger.

23. Brayden George​

Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country

Forward, 185cm, 87kg

George will be sidelined for the next 12 months after suffering a ACL rupture in Murray’s wildcard round match. It’s a shame, given the powerful forward with exceptional spring and speed, was already one of the great unknowns of the draft class after battling an early-season knee injury. But there’s still no doubting his exciting potential as a match-winning forward, who is a threat in the air and at ground level. His skill around goal has drawn comparisons to former Cats star Steve Johnson.

JP – 23: Given the unknown even before the ACL tear, George’s place in November’s draft is fascinating. He’s top-20 on talent, but which club is in a position to take the risk?

DB – 23: A recent ACL rupture and his lack of exposure places him a bit further back on this list, but there’s no doubting his potential as powerful forward capable of breaking games open in the air or at ground level.

24. Harry Barnett​

West Adelaide/SA

Ruck, 202cm, 92kg

The strong-marking 202cm talent gives his midfielders first use in the ruck and has a strong presence as a forward, but it’s Barnett’s follow-up work at stoppages and hands at ground level that have really caught the eye. His development as a ball-winning offensive weapon was on full show in the SANFL under-18s before Barnett confirmed his place as one of, if not the, standout ruck prospect in the draft at national level.

JP – 20: Does a club taken Barnett with its first selection? Given his mixed skill set and the fact there’s not a lot of other big men around at the top end of the talent pool, it could be a good move.

DB – 25: Like what he was able to do at the national championships with his work around the ground, intercepting in the air and following up at stoppages. Looms as the top ruck available.


Claremont/WA

Defender/midfielder 188cm, 71kg

Despite an injury-interrupted season, which ended with a broken leg in early August, the athletic Gilbey has put his name firmly on the draft radar. The 188cm Claremont product wins the ball back off the opposition and is creative and composed with it coming out of defence. Gilbey is slightly built, but has time with the ball in-hand and gets out of trouble through the midfield with ease.

JP – 21: Gilbey was robbed of any consistency this year by injury and Covid, but there’s no denying his class and composure – of which he has more than a lot of others in the draft.

DB – 27: Glandular fever and Covid marred his season and a broken tibia ended it, but what he was able to produce in an interrupted season was impressive. Brings classy ball-use, intercepting and ability to win 1-on-1s defensively: a nice combination as a defender.

26. Josh Weddle​

Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro

Defender, 191cm, 87kg

Weddle, a mid-sized defender, is another to have risen up AFL club draft boards on the back of a strong national championship – and a significant growth spurt over the past 18 months. The right-footer is athletically gifted, explosive with his speed and can play on talls or smalls. But, despite, his ability as an interceptor, AFL clubs see potential for Weddle to play a variety of roles, not just in defence.

JP – 28: At 191cm, Weddle needs to be versatile as a defender – and he is. There’s plenty to work with.

DB – 28: Doesn’t have the offensive attributes of Hayes but his defensive skill set is stronger, with the ultra-competitive defender able to play on a range of opponents.

27. Jakob Ryan​

Glenelg/SA

Defender/forward, 189cm, 77kg

He can play forward, as he proved as bottom-ager, but the rapidly-developing teenager has been a standout in defence at all levels this season. Ryan was the No. 1 ranked in SANFL under-18s for intercept marks and rates elite for disposals, kicking efficiency, total intercepts and score involvements as a defender. The athletic playmaker, who attacks with flare and is decisive with ball in hand, was one of SA’s strongest performers at that national carnival.

JP – 26: The Croweater’s marking ability can be used with great effect at either end of the ground, but it’s the way he used his attacking mindset in the back-half that has really stood out this year.

DB – 30+: Just outside my top 30 with other small defenders ahead, but he showed promise at the national carnival for South Australia and has no trouble finding the footy.

28. Darcy Jones​

Swan Districts/WA

Midfielder/forward 175cm, 67kg

While size may be a barrier for some, Jones’ blistering speed, clean hands and silky skills can stack up against bigger bodies, with the 175cm prospect proving that against West Coast’s WAFL side late in the year after earning a senior debut. At the national carnival, Jones’ creative ball-use and footy smarts saw him finish as one of WA’s most consistent performers, kicking a goal and winning more than 17 touches in every game.

JP – 30+: Continues to defy his size, and break games open with his speed and footy brain. As they say, if you’re good enough, you’re big enough, and that could be true with Jones, but I’ve still got him a little further back than this.

DB – 26: It can take some extra convincing for recruiters recognise a smaller prospect, and Jones was no exception, but his height doesn’t hold him back in any way. His blistering speed, creative ball-use and clean hands at ground level can be used at either end of the ground at the next level, and he has already turned heads against men in the WAFL.

29. Max Michalanney​

Norwood/SA/Crows father-son

Defender, 192cm, 78kg

The versatile, mid-sized defender, with a nice turn of speed, reads the play well and is very composed. As a bottom-ager in 2021, the 192cm prospect was the sixth-ranked player for intercept possessions at SANFL under-18 level and, this year, made his league debut for Norwood in June after impressing at reserves level. The Crows father-son prospect boasts excellent leadership skills and can play taller than his height suggests.

JP – 29: Michalanney does all the things you want a mid-sized defender to do – and he does them with a touch of class. And his leadership and character is just as impressive.

DB – 30+: Had a question mark on his competitiveness which he has dispelled somewhat with some eye-catching reserves form and a SANFL call-up. Another knocking on the door of my 30.

30. Harvey Gallagher​

Bendigo Pioneers

Defender/forward, 179cm, 77kg

Gallagher has shown promise as a small forward – both in his draft year of 2021 and at the beginning of 2022 for the Pioneers – but he has been swung into defence with great effect this year, averaging 33.2 disposals, 6.8 score involvements and a whopping 158.5 ranking points across six matches. On the back of his superb ball-use, composure, endurance and line-breaking speed, the over-ager is right back on the AFL radar, scoring an invite to October’s state combine.

JP – 30+: Can’t deny what Gallagher has done in the back half of this season – but has he done enough to convince the clubs that passed on him last year?

DB – 30: As Bendigo Pioneers coach Danny O’Bree posited to the Herald Sun: “If he was one of the top prospects this year as an 18-year-old and having this data, would he be getting more articles written about him?” We’ll let you be the judge of that, but over-ager Gallagher, who is just four months younger than Ashcroft, deserves to be recognised in this range after putting up Nick Daicos-esque NAB League numbers since switching into defence.

Gee I'd really love Mckenzie to get to us. Looks like there is a few around the mark that suit us though, hopefully we grab the right one.

 

[Remboy]

Gee I'd really love Mckenzie to get to us. Looks like there is a few around the mark that suit us though, hopefully we grab the right one.

I agree, although reading the descriptions I wouldn’t mind Humphrey either.

 

[gringo2011]

Seems it is very close between the picks of 5-10.

We are in a pretty good position to land a good player, I would not want to be any lower than where we are and I don't see it being worth trying to trade up.

Ideally we'd love a mid with that pick, but would not be upset if Cadman or Busslinger landed at our pick either.

Harvey Gallagher sounds like a good second round pick option.

 

[botts]

I agree, although reading the descriptions I wouldn’t mind Humphrey either.

Can’t kick though. We defiantly don’t need more players that can’t kick

 

[AFLOnline]

Haven’t really kept up to date with this years draft crop but it’s looking like we might be able to utilise pick 8 on a good prospect while simultaneously using points to draft our NGA in Mackenzie who’s hopefully not bid on in the top 8?

Is that correct?

And if so, would it be justifiable to trade up from pick 8, to ensure our NGA isn’t bid on prior to our first pick?

 

[Minga]

Haven’t really kept up to date with this years draft crop but it’s looking like we might be able to utilise pick 8 on a good prospect while simultaneously using points to draft our NGA in Mackenzie who’s hopefully not bid on in the top 8?

Is that correct?

And if so, would it be justifiable to trade up from pick 8, to ensure our NGA isn’t bid on prior to our first pick?

Unfortunately NGA rules have changed.

We’d have to draft Mackenzie with our FRDP. Otherwise he’d have to go after pick 40 IIRC.

 

[AFLOnline]

Unfortunately NGA rules have changed.

We’d have to draft Mackenzie with our FRDP. Otherwise he’d have to go after pick 40 IIRC.

Love it when the rules change perfectly in time so we don’t get a nice little leg up from it.

At least we got Owens and Windy last draft, although it doesn’t hold a candle to some of the free access to Academy / Zone players that other clubs have had.

 

[bird_man]

Harvey Gallagher sounds like a good second round pick option.

That's a mixture of my favourite player from the 90's and favourite band from the 90's.

Gotta be a good omen

 

[saint66au]

Brisbane get more father sons in one draft than we get in a decade

 

[Joffaboy]

Harvey Gallagher sounds like a good second round pick option.

You still on Humphrey for our 1st?

 

[Joffaboy]

Love it when the rules change perfectly in time so we don’t get a nice little leg up from it.

At least we got Owens and Windy last draft, although it doesn’t hold a candle to some of the free access to Academy / Zone players that other clubs have had.

Ugle-Hagen and Darcy two drafts in a row for an ongoing semi finalist.
System is a Mickey Mouse comp dressed up as professional.

 

[Dr Spaceman]

You on the same gear as the Duck ,

 

[CaptainRisky]

That's a mixture of my favourite player from the 90's and favourite band from the 90's.

Gotta be a good omen

We are a bit like the band , it always turns to sh1t

 

[Yabadoo22]

It seems like we will be pretty quiet this trade period and focus on the draft which I’m happy about. I’d love to get another pick between 15-20 to try Grab Olli hotton. Just looks all class, reminds me of jimmy Bartel. Could come in and play as a small forward straight away with the potential to become a part time midfielder as well. Pair him up with Mackenzie and along with last years draftees we have a good core of young midfielders.

 

[botts]

Brisbane get more father sons in one draft than we get in a decade

They get another awesome one next year as well

 

[Dr Spaceman]

Harvey Gallagher sounds like a good second round pick option.

That's a mixture of my favourite player from the 90's and favourite band from the 90's.

Gotta be a good omen

James Gallagher didn't debut until 2001 and Harvey Danger were a one hit wonder, but whatever floats your boat